Final answer:
Pericles was instrumental in Athens' Golden Age, initiating key democratic reforms and major cultural projects, such as the Parthenon, and establishing Athens as a hegemonic power, which contributed to the onset of the Peloponnesian War.
Step-by-step explanation:
Important Developments in Pericles' Life
Pericles was a pivotal figure in Athenian history, influencing its Golden Age and shaping its democratic institutions. His contributions to the Athenian society and its governance were profound. Among the most important developments or moments in Pericles' life were his reform allowing thetes, who were Athenians without wealth, to occupy public office, which democratized the political process.
The establishment of the misthophoria, a salary for citizens serving as jurors, was another vital economic and social reform. Furthermore, Pericles spearheaded the construction of significant architectural marvels including the Parthenon and the other structures on the Acropolis following the Persian War, symbolizing the cultural dominance and aesthetic achievements of Athens.
During his time, Athenian democracy was further solidified, with all adult males being able to participate in the public assembly and vote for ten generals yearly, indicative of the importance of public speech and debate in civic life.
Leading the Delian League, Pericles shifted the treasury from Delos to Athens, which not only funded the splendid construction on the Acropolis but also entrenched Athenian hegemony and facilitated a time of robust cultural and intellectual richness with the likes of Socrates and Euripides contributing to Athenian legacy.
Nevertheless, the grandeur of Athens under Pericles was upheld by the tributes and dominance over its so-called allies.
The culmination of Pericles' influence and Athens' power eventually led to strain and the onset of the Peloponnesian War, reflecting the complex dynamics of Greek city-states and the fragility of such a grand empire.